All State of Indiana hunting laws apply and are enforced on Hoosier National Forest. Hunting is permitted on all national forest lands except for designated recreation areas and Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest south of Paoli.

An array of hunting experiences can be found, from remote walk-in areas to easily accessible lands near roads.  The national forest does not have “special access areas” for disabled hunters.  Wheelchairs, as defined by the Americans With Disabilities Act, are allowed anywhere on Hoosier National Forest.

Things to Know

Discharging a firearm (including a bow and arrow) is prohibited in or within 150 yards of a developed recreation site, a residence, or any place where people are likely to be. Shooting across bodies of water is also prohibited.

Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun from, into, or across any parking area, trail, boat ramp, body of water, or road which is open to motorized vehicle traffic is prohibited.

Private lands are interspersed with public lands and you must obtain written permission from the private landowner to hunt on their property. It is highly recommended that hunters obtain a topographic map showing national forest ownership and use caution to ensure you don't inadvertently stray off public land onto private. 

Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting hours on the National Forest: ½ hour before sunrise to sunset 

Working Together

The Forest Service and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Fish and Wildlife have forged a strong partnership to provide you with the best hunting opportunities possible. The Forest Service works to improve and monitor wildlife habitat and constructs and maintains access points. The Indiana DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife surveys fish and wildlife populations, recommends harvest regulations, and coordinates stocking programs for Forest lands and waters.

In addition, we welcome volunteers to help with habitat improvement projects. Sign up for our monthly newsletter to find out about upcoming volunteer opportunities